Renowned storyteller Margot Leitman shares her journey from dancer to storyteller, discussing the power of storytelling, challenges in pursuing a creative career, financial struggles, and the evolution of a storyteller. She also highlights the importance of finding truth and passion in storytelling, spreading messages through speaking engagements, and reflects on shared experiences and relationships.
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Quick takeaways
Vulnerability is essential in storytelling, cultivating emotional resonance and connection with the audience.
Unmistakability comes from pursuing passions and staying true to oneself, creating a unique and fulfilling presence.
Focusing on personal experiences and incorporating humor can turn any situation into a captivating story, even leading to unexpected opportunities.
Deep dives
A Journey of Singlehood: Being 41 and Single at My Sister's Wedding
At the tender age of 41, I found myself single and attending my sister's wedding without a date. Initially feeling down and embarrassed, I realized that this event was not about me, but rather about celebrating my sister. With a newfound perspective, I took the opportunity to deliver a memorable speech at the wedding, even going so far as to provide my phone number on a slide and jokingly inviting aunties to send profiles and marriage proposals. Little did I know, this humorous gesture would lead to a paid speaking gig. While I didn't find a date at the wedding, I did discover newfound confidence in public speaking and a sense of self-assurance in embracing my single status.
Embracing Singlehood: My Journey as a Writer
After a series of unsuccessful relationships and a period of living with my parents, I found myself at 41 and single in San Diego. As I pursued my passion for writing and surfing, I navigated the challenges of being single in a social city. However, everything changed when I attended my sister's wedding. Initially feeling apprehensive about my single status, I realized that the wedding was a celebration of love and not a reflection of my relationship status. I made the most of the situation by giving a memorable speech and even secured a paid speaking gig as a result. While I didn't find love at the wedding, the experience taught me to embrace my singlehood and find confidence in pursuing my writing career.
A Journey of Self-Discovery: 41 and Single at My Sister's Wedding
Being 41 and single at my sister's wedding initially seemed like a daunting and embarrassing experience. However, I quickly realized that this event wasn't about me, but about celebrating my sister's love and commitment. As I attended the wedding, I embraced my role as a supportive sibling and used my speech to inject humor and lightness into the situation. Surprisingly, my witty remarks led to a paid speaking opportunity, showcasing my talent for public speaking. Although I didn't find a romantic connection at the wedding, the experience taught me to focus on personal growth and self-assurance in pursuing my writing career.
The Importance of Vulnerability in Storytelling
Vulnerability plays a crucial role in storytelling, adding emotional resonance and connection. When storytellers share their personal experiences, including failures, challenges, and journeys, it allows the audience to relate and engage with the story on a deeper level. In corporate storytelling, incorporating vulnerability can make presentations more interesting and relatable. Sharing personal stories rather than focusing solely on facts and numbers can capture the audience's attention and create a stronger impact.
Discovering Unmistakability Through Passion and Authenticity
Unmistakability is found when individuals pursue their passions and stay authentic to themselves. By immersing themselves in their creative outlets and embracing what truly drives them, people can tap into their uniqueness. The ability to find fulfillment and wholeness through their chosen pursuit makes them unmistakable. Whether it's an artistic career or a personal project, the passion and authenticity that individuals bring to their work define their unmistakable presence.
Margot Leitman, writer, performer, teacher, and renowned story teller, joins us for this episode of the podcast. Margot has founded the storytelling program at Upright Citizens Brigade and is the author of multiple successful books. During our discussion, we hear about her life before she started telling stories, find out how she started, as well as get to apply her framework to a unique story of my own. Take a listen to learn how you can turn any personal experience into a captivating story.